Best Timer Options for Electric Hot Water Heaters to Save Energy
Answering the need for reliable, easy-to-use timer solutions for electric hot water heaters. This guide highlights five timers ideal for storing hot water efficiently, with buyers in mind who want automatic controls, remote adjustments, and durable outdoor-ready designs. The top picks suit homeowners seeking energy savings, convenience, and simple installation.
Summary table of selected products:
| Product | Best For | Power/Voltage | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aquanta Smart Water Heater Timer | Smart control for storage heaters | UL safety certified; compatible with most storage heaters | Great remote access, learning schedule |
| DEWENWILS 24-Hour Mechanical Timer (208-277V) | High-power indoor/outdoor control | 208-277V, 40A, 5HP | Mechanical dial, no app |
| DEWENWILS 24-Hour Mechanical Timer (120V) | Compact, versatile 120V option | 120V, 40A, 2HP | Indoor/outdoor use |
| Intermatic EH10 Electric Water Heater Time Switch | To-the-minute scheduling | Various (7-day scheduling) | Precision timing with 42 events |
| BN-LINK Pool Pump Timer (40A, 120/240/277V) | High-power, outdoor durability | 40A, 120/240/277V | Multiple on/off programs |
Aquanta Smart Water Heater Timer
The Aquanta timer is designed for storage-style electric water heaters and emphasizes smart features. Best for buyers who want automation and remote adjustments via a smart device. It learns your daily routine to turn the heater on and off without manual input, and it is UL safety certified for storage heater compatibility.
- Best for: Homeowners seeking automated, app-based control and learning schedules.
- Why selected: Combines convenience with remote control and storage heater compatibility.
Caution: Works with a range of storage-style heaters, but verify compatibility with your specific model and installation requirements before purchase.
DEWENWILS 24-Hour Mechanical Timer Switch (208-277VAC)
This heavy-duty mechanical timer is built for 208-277V loads and up to 40A, making it a strong candidate for high-power water heater setups in larger homes or external installations. It repeats a 24-hour cycle and is designed for straightforward wiring with clear load-based guides.
- Best for: Homes needing a robust, non-smart timer for high-power water heaters.
- Why selected: Durable, weather-ready design with simple dial programming.
Caution: Mechanical timers have no remote control or app support; ensure you’re comfortable with manual scheduling and installation wiring.
DEWENWILS 24-Hour Mechanical Timer Switch (120V)
An indoor/outdoor 120V option with a weatherproof, heavy-duty enclosure. Best for smaller setups or situations where a compact, reliable timer is needed without smart connectivity. It supports up to 40A and 2HP motors, with easy wiring similar to the 208-277V model.
- Best for: Small to medium water heater installations where a simple timer is preferred.
- Why selected: Reliable mechanical control in a rugged enclosure.
Caution: Ensure the load matches the timer’s rated voltage and current to avoid overloading.
Intermatic EH10 Electric Water Heater Time Switch
The Intermatic EH10 offers 42 weekly ON/OFF events with 7-day scheduling and to-the-minute precision. It’s designed for precise control of an electric water heater, ideal for households that require strict timing and tailored weekly routines.
- Best for: Users needing high-precision scheduling with weeklong planning.
- Why selected: Detailed event control supports nuanced energy-saving schedules.
Caution: As a non-smart timer, it lacks remote management; installation and programming require careful setup to match your weekly routine.
BN-LINK Pool Pump Timer (Outdoor, 40A)
BN-LINK’s heavy-duty outdoor timer covers 120/240/277 VAC with 40A resistive load capacity. It provides a 24-hour repeat cycle with 96 pins for up to 48 programs per day, which can be useful for water heater timers in outdoor installations or alongside other high-power devices.
- Best for: Outdoor setups where weatherproof, programmable control is required.
- Why selected: High power handling and flexible daily programming.
Caution: The multiple programming pins require careful setup; power outages may require a dial reset to current time.
DEWENWILS Pool Timer With WiFi (Smart)
This outdoor smart timer provides WiFi connectivity and voice control via Alexa or Google Assistant. It supports 2.4 GHz networks and offers multiple scheduling options, including programmable, random, and astronomical modes. Best for users who want remote control and voice commands for water heater timing.
- Best for: Homeowners seeking cloud-enabled control and smart home integration.
- Why selected: Combines scheduling with remote access and voice control.
Caution: Requires a stable WiFi connection and compatible smart home ecosystem to fully leverage features.
SURAIELEC Seven-Day Digital Pool Timer
With 7-day programming, 40A capacity, and selectable 120/240/277 VAC operation, this timer is versatile for both outdoor use and water heater timing. It includes a rechargeable battery backup to keep time and settings during power outages, ensuring continuous operation.
- Best for: Outdoors or tough environments requiring reliable digital control with backup timekeeping.
- Why selected: Time retention during outages plus flexible 7-day cycles.
Caution: Battery backup improves reliability, but recharge time and battery health should be monitored over long-term use.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A Water Heater Timer
- Smart vs. mechanical: Do you want remote access, app control, or is a mechanical dial sufficient for your needs?
- Voltage and amperage: Match the timer to your water heater’s electrical load (120V vs 208-277V; 2HP vs 5HP or higher).
- Indoor vs outdoor: Outdoor timers should be weatherproof and ETL/UL listed for exterior use; indoor models prioritize compact design.
- Scheduling needs: Consider number of ON/OFF events per week and the granularity (minute-level vs hourly).
- Installation: Some timers require simple wiring; others pair with smart hubs or WiFi networks. Verify compatibility with your heater model and wiring setup.
- Reliability and backup: If power outages occur, consider timers with time retention or backup batteries to maintain schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do timers save energy on electric water heaters?
Yes. By automating on/off cycles, they reduce standby heat loss and ensure the heater runs only when needed. - Are smart timers compatible with all water heaters?
Compatibility depends on the heater type and circuits. Check the product’s stated compatibility with storage-style or inline heaters. - Can I install a timer myself?
Many timers are designed for DIY installation, but high-voltage wiring can be dangerous. If unsure, hire a licensed electrician. - What is the difference between 120V and 208-277V timers?
The main difference is the electrical load capacity and wiring requirements; choose a timer that matches your circuit and heater specifications. - Do mechanical timers work outside?
Some are weatherproof; verify enclosure rating and installation guidance for outdoor use. - Can timers be integrated with voice assistants?
Yes, several models offer Alexa or Google Assistant compatibility for remote control.